As the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp, I can’t help but crave the comforting scents of autumn wafting through my kitchen. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Moist Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting, a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall in every slice. This bread isn’t just a sweet indulgence; it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it the perfect cozy baking project for both seasoned home chefs and those just starting their culinary journey. The rich spices combined with the velvety cream cheese frosting create a delicious contrast that will have everyone asking for seconds. Curious about how to make this autumnal favorite a truly memorable delight? Let’s dive in!

Why is Pumpkin Bread Irresistible?

Moisture and flavor truly shine in this Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting, making each bite a burst of autumn. Ease of preparation means you can whip this up any day, even if you’re short on time. Spice variations offer flexibility; you can customize it with your favorite warm spices or even add chocolate chips for a sweet twist! Crowd-pleaser alert—this delightful bread is fantastic for sharing at gatherings or cozy family breakfasts, accompanied by a warm cup of coffee or tea. And if you’re looking for more fall-inspired treats, don’t miss my Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies that are equally scrumptious!

Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

• Curious about what makes this fall favorite?

For the Bread

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and tenderness; you can substitute with a gluten-free blend.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring your pumpkin bread rises beautifully.
Ground Spices (Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, Cloves, Cardamom) – Adds warm, cozy flavors of fall; using pumpkin pie spice can simplify your spice cabinet!
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor, making each bite deliciously well-rounded.
Canola Oil – Keeps the bread moist; feel free to swap for vegetable oil or melted butter (though it may alter moisture slightly).
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the bread while contributing to its luscious texture.
Light Brown Sugar – Imparts depth and moisture; use more granulated sugar if you’re in a pinch.
Eggs – Binds ingredients and provides moisture; using room temperature eggs will result in better mixing.
Canned Pumpkin Puree – The star ingredient for moisture and flavor; don’t hesitate to use fresh pumpkin if you’re up for the challenge.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the sweetness and rich flavors of the bread.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream Cheese – Provides that creamy, tangy goodness; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy blending!
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the frosting; also best softened to room temperature.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and ensures a smooth frosting consistency; sift for an extra fluffy texture.
Milk – Adjusts frosting thickness; add as needed for a spreadable delight.

With these carefully selected ingredients, your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting will be both moist and irresistibly scrumptious—perfect for sharing or savoring alone!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (170°C) and lining a 9×5 loaf pan with parchment paper. This will ensure easy removal of your delicious Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting later on. As the oven heats up, gather your mixing bowls and measuring cups, creating a clutter-free workspace.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt, along with your chosen ground spices. Aim for a smooth, uniform blend with a delightful aroma. This dry mixture forms the foundation of your moist pumpkin bread, so make sure it’s thoroughly incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of canola oil, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of light brown sugar, 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree, 2 room temperature eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture appears smooth and glossy. This blend of wet ingredients infuses the pumpkin bread with moisture and flavor, creating a glorious combination.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine! The result should be a velvety smooth batter ready for the loaf pan, capturing all the cozy aromas of fall that your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting promises.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Pour the luscious batter into your lined loaf pan, ensuring an even distribution. Lightly score the top with a knife to encourage a beautiful crack as it bakes. This simple step also adds a rustic touch to your pumpkin bread, making it look as inviting as it tastes.

Step 6: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. Keep an eye on this aromatic treasure; it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. You’ll know your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is close to perfection when the kitchen fills with its warm spice fragrance.

Step 7: Cool the Pumpkin Bread
Once baked, remove the loaf pan from the oven and allow it to cool for about 15 minutes. Carefully take the bread out of the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial to ensure your bread retains its moisture and texture before frosting it.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the bread cools, prepare the creamy frosting by beating together 8 oz of room temperature cream cheese and 1/4 cup of softened unsalted butter until light and fluffy. Slowly incorporate 2 cups of powdered sugar and a splash of milk to reach your desired frosting consistency. The resulting mixture should be smooth and creamy, perfect for spreading.

Step 9: Frost and Serve
Once the pumpkin bread has completely cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Allow it to set for a few minutes before slicing into this delightful fall treat. Your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is now ready to be savored, so gather friends and family for a lovely taste of autumn!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

Room Temperature: Store unfrosted pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it moist and flavorful, perfect for a quick snack.

Refrigerator: If you’ve frosted your pumpkin bread, keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s covered well to maintain the delicious creamy layer of cream cheese frosting.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap the unfrosted pumpkin bread tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, allowing for future cozy treats.

Reheating: To enjoy cold slices, simply pop them in the microwave briefly, or let them thaw at room temperature. If you’ve frozen the frosted bread, allow it to thaw before serving to maintain the perfect texture of the frosting.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting?

As you savor each slice of this delightful bread, consider these perfect pairings to elevate your autumn dining experience.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness creates a warming contrast to the sweet and spiced pumpkin bread.
Spiced Chai Latte: Infused with warming spices, this cozy drink beautifully complements the bread’s autumnal flavors.
Fresh Fruit Salad: The crispness of seasonal fruits adds brightness, balancing the richness of the cream cheese frosting.
Roasted Butternut Squash: Its natural sweetness and buttery texture will echo the pumpkin bread’s warm flavors, creating a harmonious plate.
Maple-Glazed Carrots: Their sweet, caramelized edges bring a delightful twist that mirrors the sweetness of the bread.
Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: These treats add a nostalgic touch, perfect for a cozy afternoon snack alongside a cup of coffee.

Elevating your meal with these complementary flavors will surely make your pumpkin bread experience even more memorable!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all wet ingredients, particularly eggs and cream cheese, are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated; overmixing can lead to a dense loaf instead of light, moist pumpkin bread.
Crack Test: Watch for a crack down the center of the bread as it bakes, which indicates a properly risen loaf. Use the toothpick test for perfect doneness.
Chocolate Chip Addition: If adding chocolate chips, fold them in gently after mixing the batter to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with spice substitutions or add-ins to make your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting uniquely yours!
Frost at the Right Time: Always frost the bread once it has cooled completely to avoid melting the frosting and losing that beautiful creamy layer.

Make Ahead Options

This Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for busy home cooks wanting to save time! You can prepare the bread batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container; this helps deepen the flavors. You can also bake and cool the bread, then store it unfrosted at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to frost it later, cover the cooled bread tightly to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply frost it with the prepared cream cheese mixture and enjoy your delightful fall treat just as delicious as it was on baking day!

Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Variations

Feel free to get creative with this delightful recipe; customizing it can make it even more unforgettable!

Chocolate Chip Delight: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips for a sweet, melty surprise in every bite. This indulgent twist elevates the flavor of your pumpkin bread even further!
Whole Wheat Goodness: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture and boost of fiber. This variation is not only healthier but offers a subtle nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
Coconut Oil Twist: Use coconut oil instead of canola oil for a hint of tropical flavor, complementing the warm spices perfectly. Plus, it adds an extra moistness that’s just divine.
Pumpkin Spice Seasoning: Replace the individual spices with 2 tablespoons of pumpkin pie spice for a quicker option, retaining all those cozy autumn flavors without extra measuring.
Maple Syrup Sweetener: Substitute granulated sugar with maple syrup for a rich, caramel-like sweetness. Just be sure to reduce the liquid in your wet ingredients slightly to maintain the batter consistency!
Nutty Add-In: Sprinkle in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. Nuts bring a lovely texture contrast to the soft, moist bread.
Zesty Citrus Flare: Add the zest of one orange to your batter for a refreshing twist. The citrus brightness beautifully complements the pumpkin and warms spices.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy some heat, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients. This will give your pumpkin bread an unexpected yet delightful kick that intrigues the palate.

Your journey to pumpkin perfection can be as unique as you are! If you’re looking for even more savory delights, be sure to check out my Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies or Pumpkin Goat Cheese Risotto for more seasonal inspiration.

Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pumpkin for my bread?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin, look for firm, heavy, and unblemished ones without dark spots. For canned pumpkin, make sure it’s 100% pure pumpkin puree without added sugars or spices for the best flavor in your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting.

How do I store leftover Pumpkin Bread?
Store unfrosted pumpkin bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’ve frosted it, refrigerate for up to 5 days, ensuring it’s well-covered to keep that delicious cream cheese frosting intact. Enjoy that moist goodness for days!

Can I freeze pumpkin bread? What’s the best method?
Yes, you can freeze your Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting! Wrap the unfrosted bread tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw at room temperature. If freezing frosted bread, do the same but allow it to thaw completely before serving to keep that creamy texture.

What if my pumpkin bread is too dense?
If your bread turns out dense, check if your wet and dry ingredients were properly combined. Overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients can lead to a denser texture. For a lighter loaf, mix just until combined, allowing a few lumps. Also, ensure all ingredients, especially eggs, are at room temperature, which aids in better emulsification.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! This Pumpkin Bread can easily accommodate various dietary needs. For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. If you’re concerned about sugar intake, simply reduce the quantity of granulated or brown sugar to suit your preference while still maintaining a delicious taste. Always double-check for potential allergies related to your chosen ingredients.

Can I add mix-ins to the pumpkin bread?
Absolutely! You can fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips or nuts after combining your wet and dry ingredients for added texture and flavor. Just be gentle to ensure the batter remains light and fluffy. If you like experimenting, swap out spices or use coconut oil instead of canola for a unique twist!